Trisha Anne P. Segumban

The Department of Education (DepEd) granted a 30-day policy of uninterrupted flexible vacation for teachers, as publicly announced on April 7, 2025, aiming to support their overall well-being and ensure proper rest after a demanding academic year. 

Photo Courtesy of Inquirer Net.

Teachers may schedule their 30-day vacation between April 16 and June 1, 2025, either continuously or on a staggered basis. 

The policy also applies to teachers handling the Alternative Learning System (ALS) and Arabic Language and Islamic Values Education (ALIVE) classes. 

Learners attending mandatory summer programs will have their break scheduled outside the period of May 13 to June 6, 2025. 

According to the DepEd, this vacation is free from any school-related tasks, including activities under the Performance Management Evaluation System (PMES). 

Teachers are only required to submit their electronic Individual Performance Commitment and Review Form (eIPCRF) by the end of the first month of the next school year. 

Those applying for promotion may accomplish and submit their performance evaluations before the last day of classes. 

Participation in summer training or professional developmental activities remains voluntary and must be scheduled beyond the vacation period. 

Teachers who chose to attend these programs will be granted additional Vacation Service Credits (VSC) on top of the 30-day leave. 

School heads are excluded from the policy as they are responsible for the overseeing school operations during the vacation period. 

However, they are entitled to use their vacation and sick leave credits within the same time frame. 

DepEd Secretary Juan Edgardo “Sonny” Angara emphasized that the break is a well-deserved opportunity for teachers to spend time with their families and return refreshed for the new school year. 

“This break is a well-deserved opportunity for our learners and teachers after a long academic year,” Angara said. 

“I hope they spend this time wisely, unwinding with their families and loved ones, and return to work energized for the new school year,” he added. 

This marks the first time DepEd has institutionalized a policy ensuring a protected 30-day rest period without mandatory school-related duties. 

While no specific law mandates a 30-day vacation, the policy aligns with Magna Carta for Public School Teachers (RA 4670) and Civil Service Commision guidelines, which advocate for teacher welfare and adequate rest.